Key Turning Points: Decisive Moments in India vs Sri Lanka Women’s World Cup Clash

On a historic day marked by celebration and nature’s beauty, India Women commenced their 2025 World Cup journey with a 59-run victory (via DLS method) against Sri Lanka in Guwahati.

At the ACA Stadium, an enthusiastic crowd witnessed Harmanpreet Kaur’s team overcome a significant challenge posed by veteran spinner Inoka Ranaweera’s intense spell.

A vital partnership between Amanjot Kaur and Deepti Sharma guided India to a competitive total, and Deepti’s three-wicket haul led the bowling attack to secure the win.

Disciplined Start and Ranaweera’s Fiery Spell

Sri Lanka’s decision to field first proved effective immediately, as their bowlers maintained tight lines and were well-supported by agile fielding. Smriti Mandhana was tempted by the width offered by Udeshika Prabodani, leading to her dismissal for eight in the fourth over.

The match took a dramatic turn when Inoka Ranaweera ramped up the pressure in her fourth over, claiming the wickets of Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, and captain Harmanpreet Kaur within five deliveries, placing Sri Lanka in a dominant position.

Missed Opportunities

India was struggling at 124 for six, and Sri Lanka sensed an opportunity to take control. However, in their pursuit of another breakthrough, Chamari Athapaththu’s side lost momentum, allowing India to recover.

Amanjot Kaur and Deepti Sharma took advantage of this lapse, forging a 103-run partnership for the seventh wicket that swung the match in India’s favor. Amanjot, returning from injury, played with aggression, while Deepti provided a solid anchor. Both reached half-centuries before Sneh Rana’s quick scoring added a late boost to India’s innings.

Off-Spin Duo Shines

Chamari Athapaththu led Sri Lanka’s chase with confidence, challenging the Indian bowlers with ease. Sensing danger, Harmanpreet relied on her off-spinners, Sneh Rana and Deepti Sharma, to quell the threat, even before the PowerPlay concluded. The duo bowled tightly, strategizing against the Sri Lankan skipper.

Sneh’s economical overs without boundaries forced Athapaththu to attack Deepti, who eventually took her chance. In the 15th over, Athapaththu misjudged a full, paced delivery from Deepti, and was bowled, signaling Sri Lanka’s collapse.

Despite resistance from Nilakshika de Silva, regular wickets hindered Sri Lanka’s progress, ending their hopes of securing victory.

Published on October 1, 2025